The first-generation Niro had a relatively short life cycle of only five years as Kia has already unveiled this week its direct successor. Looking entirely different both inside and out, the electrified crossover has been unveiled at the 2021 Seoul Mobility Show where this video was shot. The South Korean brand brought not one, but two different versions of the Niro – one being the hybrid model and the other being the fully electric derivative. As before, there will also be a third version taking the shape of a plug-in hybrid.
The major difference between the HEV and EV is noticeable at the front where the latter has a closed-off “tiger nose” grille incorporating the charging port mounted right in the center. As a reminder, the outgoing zero-emissions Niro can be recharged by using the port mounted to the right of the grille. It will be interesting to see where the PHEV will have it considering the charging port on the old one was mounted in the front fender.
One interesting feature we did not notice in the official images is the functional side vent behind the contrasting panel mounted on the rear pillar to improve airflow and make the Niro even more efficient. Speaking of that quirky panel, we are honestly hoping Kia will also sell the 2022 Niro with the C-pillar finished in the same color as the rest of the body as this appearance is just too striking for out tastes.
While the HEV model featured on video sits on 18-inch wheels wrapped around in 225/45 tires, the EV uses smaller 17-inch alloys covered in 215/55 rubber. The YouTuber wasn’t allowed to take a peek inside, but official images show a dashboard design quite similar to that of the EV6 as well as the latest Sportage.
Technical specifications are still shrouded in mystery, although Kia is expected to disclose all the juicy details in the coming weeks or months seeing as how the new Niro will go on sale in the first half of 2022.
Source: Asian Petrolhead / YouTube
